I spent several years working as a clown, visiting children’s wards in hospitals. It was interesting to see how each family reacted to the challenges they faced while caring for their children interned in the hospital. Some families were in shock, anguish, or even denial. Others, however, seemed to have more inner resources that helped them navigate the rocky terrain. This was manifested also in the peace of their children and their ability to adapt to their new surroundings.

I pondered that if any of us knew when we would be flung into such unexpected circumstances, we would try to be well prepared. But, of course, the catch is—we don’t know.  I read a story that sheds some light on how to be better equipped to face any difficult situation that we might find ourselves in. It goes like this:

In one region of Africa, the first converts to Christianity there were very diligent about praying. In fact, the believers each had their own special place outside the village where they went to pray in solitude. The villagers reached these “prayer rooms” by using their own private footpaths through the brush. When grass began to grow over one of these paths, it was evident that the person to whom it belonged was not praying very much. Because these new Christians were concerned for each other’s spiritual welfare, a unique custom sprang up. Whenever anyone noticed an overgrown “prayer path,” he or she would go to the person and lovingly warn, “Friend, there’s grass on your path.”—Henry G. Bosch

We can ask ourselves: How is our path to prayer? Is it well-worn through daily use, or is it overgrown with the thorns of concerns? When we are in times of need, like those families in the children’s hospital, will we find our path to prayer quickly? Or will we have to first get out our machetes to clear the path of weeds?

The Lord wants to be part of our lives every day, accompanying us through the easy and the difficult moments. If we develop a close relationship with Him, it will be second nature to run to Him in times of trouble. We won’t hesitate; the “path” will be clear.

This month’s issue of Activated talks about many of the challenges of life and how to face them with faith, hope and perseverance. We pray that you will always remember that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).